Taking The Iron Way

Access unusual yet scenic and protected mountain terrain you wouldn’t normally get to explore by trying via ferrata, says Kate White. It’s physically demanding but great fun if you fancy a new adventure

- Kate White

Despite sounding like something from Game of Thrones, the ‘iron way’ is actually a rough translation of ‘via ferrata’ – a protected route through the mountains, where hiking meets climbing, enabling you to access exciting mountain territory without needing to be a world-class climber. Intrigued? Then read on...

A via ferrata route is permanently equipped with steel cables periodically anchored to the rock, as well as ladders, metal rungs and bridges depending on the terrain. The cables can be used as handrails if needed, if you don’t want to hold on to the rock face, but in general the cables are there to clip in to – your safety line in case of a fall.

And why would you do this? Well, it offers you the chance to access terrain that you might never normally be able to get to; to experience the thrill of being high up on the rock face, in exposed conditions. It’s pure adventure. And as long as you’re reasonably fit, have good upper body strength and a steady head for heights, it opens up a whole world of mountain excursions to adventure-seekers and families alike. With a bit of planning, the right equipment (minimal but essential) and basic technique, you can find yourself in mountainous situations that you never dreamed you’d be able to access.

If you’re an experienced climber, don’t assume via ferratas are not for the likes of you. Oh no, my friend, some of the routes at the extreme end of the scale can offer an exciting and physically demanding day out, with the added bonus of having minimal equipment to carry, and the ability to move fast and solo through the mountains.

THE HISTORY OF VIA FERRATA